Rome: In a profound reflection on the ongoing challenges and fragile hope in the Holy Land, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, spoke to Vatican Radio on Wednesday about the need for a renewed approach toward peace following the recent truce between Israel and Hamas. The Patriarch emphasized that communities on both sides must be guided to look forward with serenity and optimism, despite the deep scars left by years of conflict.
Cardinal Pizzaballa highlighted the precarious situation in Gaza and the West Bank, where the aftermath of hostilities has left cities and villages in ruins. “People are returning, but they are returning to the ruins. Hospitals are not functioning; schools do not exist,” he noted, underscoring the enormous task of rebuilding not only infrastructure but trust between communities. He also drew attention to the unresolved issue of the bodies of deceased hostages, illustrating the complexity of the post-conflict environment.
The Patriarch stressed the importance of nurturing hope as distinct from the end of conflict, describing hope as “the daughter of faith.” He called for the emergence of new political and religious leadership capable of fostering mutual respect and rebuilding a narrative of fraternity. “We need new faces, new figures who can help rebuild a different narrative, one based on mutual respect. It will take a long time because the wounds are deep, but we must not give up,” he said.
Regarding the human dimension of suffering, Cardinal Pizzaballa emphasized that both Israelis and Palestinians have endured immense pain, though each often perceived only their own suffering. “Everyone was so full of their own pain that they had no room left inside to make space for the pain of others,” he reflected. The Patriarch called for a new language and new witnesses to bridge this gap and promote understanding without justifying past injustices.
On the West Bank, he described the situation as increasingly fragile, with village communities isolated, checkpoints multiplying, and tensions with settlers exacerbating insecurity. The Hebrew-speaking Catholic community in Israel, he noted, plays a critical role in the Church’s internal cohesion, reminding the faithful of perspectives often overlooked in the broader Israeli-Palestinian dialogue.
Cardinal Pizzaballa also lauded the recent demonstrations worldwide that rejected violence, noting how citizens from diverse backgrounds and political affiliations have come together to defend human dignity and denounce war. He stressed the significance of forming a communal consciousness centered on peace, solidarity, and the respect for human life.
Looking ahead, the Patriarch expressed cautious hope for the return of pilgrims to the Holy Land and the vital role of interreligious dialogue in cultivating lasting peace. He highlighted the importance of new leaders committed to change, inspired by historical figures like Yitzhak Rabin, and called on communities to build the foundations for future generations.
While remaining neutral on political debates, such as the recognition of the State of Palestine, Cardinal Pizzaballa insisted that Palestinians must be acknowledged in their dignity as a people. He also conveyed the tangible support received from the Popes, both Francis and Leo XIV, including humanitarian aid like antibiotics sent to Gaza, demonstrating the Church’s commitment to concrete solidarity alongside spiritual guidance.
“Despite the difficulties, we have a duty toward our communities to help them look ahead, positively and serenely, toward a different future,” Cardinal Pizzaballa concluded, emphasizing that hope, patience, and new leadership are essential for a lasting peace in the Holy Land.